The Girls at 17 Swann Street by Yara Zgheib

I have a special interest in mental health and it’s one area of our health I am most sensitive to. Anorexia nervosa is a psychological disorder that I haven’t explored that much of or understand that well. I thought Yara Zgheib did such a great job taking us into the mind of our main character Anna as she reclaims her life in the life-threatening stage of anorexia.

I was deeply moved by this haunting, raw and honestly written story. I feared and rooted for Anna and the girls. I started to see how Anna viewed food and I could feel Anna’s anxiety and terror towards food.

The treatment at times seemed harsh and I became angry at their approach, then reminded myself just how terrifying anorexia is as it affects physical health as well, making it even more life-threatening. I felt a lot of the focus was more on the physical side of their health and would of like to see more into the psychological side of the disorder. It did get me thinking more about just how terrifying it is, though.

The girls at 17 Swann Street deeply moved me with the support and courage they had while supporting each other when faced with the anxiety and terror of eating those 6 meals a day. Yara Zgheib highlights this through her compassionate writing and complex characters and it warmed my heart. We also see the support and understanding of Anna’s husband, as well. I loved how I could see that yet still see just how terrified he was at losing the love of his life.

After reading this one, Yara Zgheib gave me so much to think about and left me wanting to learn more about this disorder. As heartbreaking this subject is, the story is also heartwarming and full of hope. I highly recommend it, especially if you have an interest in mental health.

I received a copy from the publisher on NetGalley